Spearheaded by San José State University’s School of Information, XR VOICES (Virtual Oases for Inclusive Cultural Exchange and Sanctuary) leverages Web 3.0 technologies to establish immersive and interactive communities that share and preserve intangible heritage and collective narratives to yield societal benefits.
Funded by an IMLS Native American Enhancement Grant and created in partnership with the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, “Seeking Immortality” is a virtual reality environment preserving endangered language and cultural knowledge. The project trained tribal members and students in using 3D scanners, cameras, and other emerging technologies, empowering them to autonomously build and curate the space while maintaining their information and data sovereignty. This browser-based VR environment showcases the tribe’s land, language, and traditions, addressing challenges posed by tribal dispersion and the dwindling number of Cheyenne language speakers over 65. “Seeking Immortality” delivers culturally significant items, land representations, knowledge, and language in an immersive, collective environment accessible across all devices, ensuring widespread preservation and engagement with Northern Cheyenne heritage. Visit Seeking Immortality here.
XR VOICES has achieved significant results and impacts since its inception. The “Seeking Immortality” initiative has successfully empowered students with emerging technology competencies enabling the Northern Cheyenne Tribe with autonomous skills through knowledge sharing, to curate and expand their virtual space without ongoing SJSU assistance, ensuring the long-term preservation of their cultural heritage. This self-sufficiency demonstrates the project’s success in transferring technological skills to partner communities and students.
Head to https://celebrate.anthemawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/education-art-culture/awareness-categories/non-profit to vote for us! We are under the SJSU School of Information XR VOICES (Virtual Oases for Inclusive Cultural Exchange and Sanctuary) selected in Education, Art & Culture – Digital & Innovative Experiences.
Voting ends 10/31/24 at Midnight PDT!